I sharpen a lot, too. It didn't take too long to figure out how much
better the tools perform when sharp, and how much less sanding the
project needed when finished with a sharp tool.

I look at it this way; I would never use a dull chisel (I have some, I
call them my "beaters") on a project, nor would I use a dull saw blade
or drill bit. So why would I use a dull turning tool?

I actually pick the tools I like to use by their feel and ease of use
from their design, not so much from what kind of steel they have.
Until I bought some HSS tools, I turned quite comfortably with a set
of carbon steel tools. I still use a couple out of that set now and
again simply because I like the way they feel.

Woodturning is my hobby. I have always thought that I will never wear
out any of my turning tools. Now, after reading Steve Russell's
mileage on his bowl gouge, I am sure of it. I won't turn in my
lifetime what he turns in a year.

Robert